BARRE, Vt. (WCAX) - Stories of survivors are in the spotlight at the Vermont Statehouse, where new art on the walls tells tales of devastating flooding.

It was in the aftermath of the 2023 floods, while slowly picking up the pieces, that Barre resident and artist Dierdra Michelle had an idea, a hope of healing her community.

“Giving time and money is harder, but giving art I can do,” Michelle said.

Teaming up with local poet Shawna Trader, who was involved in the flood cleanup and recovery, they interviewed 20 Barre residents, city employees, business owners, homeowners and an unhoused person about their experiences for the “Heart of Barre.”

“Each one of those folks delivered a special kernel of wisdom that has been turned into a lesson or a poem, and I think it’s really powerful,” Tra

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